How to Pair Your Watch with the Right Jewelry

It goes without saying that every ensemble works with the right coordination. Whether it’s for a casual day out or a formal event, pairing your outfit with the right accessories always matters. However, the finer details such as jewelry and watches can make or break your overall look. It doesn’t matter if you’re wearing a Bulgari or a Cartier, if you don’t match your jewelry with your watch correctly, even the brand’s name can’t save your fashion ensemble.

To make heads turn for the right reasons, even accessories need to be paired just right. So, we put together a guide to help you perfectly pair your watch with the right jewelry. Are there any rules you should strictly follow? How do you mix and match your jewelry and watch? Read further to know more.

Ultimate Ladies’ Accessories

Women have been donning accessories as far back as 40,000 years ago. This rich history continues in modern days. Perhaps, the most popular women’s accessories are jewelry. Historically, jewelry started out as a symbol of wealth and affluence. Royalties donned pieces of jewelry made of precious stones like diamonds and rubies, and metals such as gold and silver. Today, while well-heeled women still wear jewelry, it became more accessible to more people. Jewelry continues to be an icon of beauty for many and it is, to say the least, the ultimate ladies’ accessories.

Watches, on the other hand, can serve as more than just a functional accessory. It can also be a piece of jewelry or something to pair it with. Just like jewelry, watches were also symbols of affluence that a lot of royalties and the rich and famous owned and even flaunted, given the history of brands like Patek Philippe, Breguet, and Jaquet Droz. And as jewelry evolved, watches did too. Now, every woman has a timepiece to pair their jewelry with.

Both jewelry and watches hold sentimental value for most women. They’re not just accessories anymore. Behind each accessory is a story and a value incomparable to any amount of money. Women mostly buy these pieces of jewelry as gifts to themselves, while others receive them from their loved ones. Either way, these timeless accessories are precious items with precious memories anchored within them.

However, it is quite disastrous to find a watch being overpowered by jewelry. With the wide selection of jewelry and watches women can choose from, it sure can get pretty overwhelming. But to keep you from going through a terrible fashion emergency, we put together a few rules to pair your watches with your jewelry. Luckily, ladies’ watches such as Chanel and Chopard, are made to be paired with jewelry or even serve as one. You’ll find that pairing your watch with the right jewelry is a lot easier and less complicated than you’d think.

Top 10 Watches & Jewelry Brands

The association between watches and jewelry is nothing new in the industry. A lot of jewelry brands started producing timepieces after a while. On the other hand, watch brands also take pride in their jewelry pieces. More often than not, watch and jewelry become an integral part of a brand’s legacy. Take for instance brands like Louis Vuitton and Marc Jacobs. These storied fashion houses take both jewelry and watches as an essential part of their catalog. After all, the ladies’ accessories market constantly grows to this day. So, we gathered the ‘op 10 watches and jewelry brands that produce both dazzling and functional accessories. In no particular order, here are the top 10 watch and jewelry brands for you.

1. Bulgari

One of the most prominent names in the fashion world, Bulgari leads with a dedicated line of jewelry, watches, fragrances, leather goods, and more. It’s impossible not to associate this brand with luxury and glamour with its lavish accessories. More than a hundred years ago in 1884, the brand is one of the pioneers in the industry. Currently part of the LVMH Group, Bulgari’s selection of fine jewelry spans different styles — from understated to extravagant.

Fascinated by the wild, Bulgari’s designs revolve around the breadth of nature. For instance, the Bulgari Serpenti collection of watches and jewelry includes designs that reflect the imagery of a snake. Snakes inspired the collection’s sensual and bold approach to accessories. The Fiorever collection, on the other hand, puts flora into the pedestal. Encrusted with diamonds, the Fiorever dons the likeness of a flower — delicate yet captivating, and better yet, eye-catching.

But more than just producing fine jewelry, Bulgari also proved itself a powerful player in the watchmaking industry. Only less than a decade ago, the Bulgari Octo was launched with great anticipation. It sprung up numerous iterations such as the iconic Bulgari Octo Finissimo — one of the world’s thinnest timepieces that broke multiple records upon its release. This very timepiece cemented Bulgari’s position in Haute Horlogerie.

2. Cartier

Referred to by King Edward VII of Great Britain as “the jeweler of kings and the king of jewelers”, Cartier is one of the biggest players in fashion. The jewelry house is one of today’s most prominent names, and it only keeps on getting bigger. Associated with affluence and power, the French luxury brand has been adorning royalties since the early 1900s and perhaps even earlier. From British royalty, Cartier’s business expanded to Spain, Russia, and Portugal. Today, Cartier is a worldwide phenomenon that embraces its heritage with its current line up of jewelry and watches.

Cartier’s distinct style spans from grandeur to more minimal designs. They take inspiration from just about anything — nature, architecture, and even the material used themselves. Just as its jewelry collection, the brand’s watches such as the Santos de Cartier, Cartier Tank, and Cartier Ballon Bleu have a distinct look that can only be associated with the brand. They focus on the timeless look whether it’s for jewelry or watches.

3. Tiffany & Co. 

Celebrated jewelry brand Tiffany and Co. — popularly referred to as Tiffany’s — produces just about any women’s accessories. Name it, they have it. From jewelry, china, and crystal to stationery, fragrances, and watches, the lineup of Tiffany’s goes beyond your typical luxury house products. However, Tiffany’s became known for its diamond and sterling silver jewelry. The brand also stood out with their collaborative efforts with various watch brands such as Patek Philippe and Rolex. Moreover, Tiffany’s also produces some of the best timepieces that collectors adore for their prowess and aesthetic.

Tiffany and Co.’s aesthetic falls into the ultimate feminine style. From the simplicity of their collections, Tiffany’s boasts luxurious designs void of any complications. Some of its most famous collections include the Bracelets Tiffany 1837® and The Atlas®.

4. Chanel

French fashion house Chanel produces everything a luxurious woman needs. The brand’s ready-to-wear clothes and accessories are some of the most favored pieces in fashion. Owned by the Wertheimers, Chanel carries with it Coco Chanel’s refined aesthetic without going over the top. Some of the most prominent names who became ambassadors like Keira Knightley, Nicole Kidman, and Marilyn Monroe truly believed in the brand’s philosophy. Also known to collaborate with various artists and brands, Chanel is a prominent name no one can simply say no to.

Its watch division opened in 1987. The designs of its timepieces embrace form and function in its highest regard. At a single glance, no one would mistake it for a generic watch. The brand’s aesthetic rests on the timepieces with various designs that range from understated to unprecedented. The Chanel J12 watches, perhaps, are the most popular models from the brand.

5. Hermes

As the center of fashion in Europe, France presents another entry on our list with Hermes. It is one of the most popular names that gets thrown around in luxury mambo jumbo. This rests on the idea that Hermes is truly unique in its sense of style with bold designs that it carries throughout its product lineup. Be it a bag or a piece of jewelry, Hermes truly enthralls the essence of an eye-catching design.

The great thing about Hermes is the fact that they don’t shy away from color. It’s not every day that you see a timepiece with pink leather straps. The brand takes on color to serve a purpose rather than to just add flair. The flashy details of their jewelry and watches are evident even from afar. Take for instance, the Hermes Klikti watch or the Heure H. These timepieces don’t see color as an enemy, but a friend that helps you stand out in the most fabulous situations.

6. Chopard

There is something thoughtful about Chopard. This Swiss brand mainly focuses on watches and jewelry but has since expanded to other products. However, the excellence that Chopard executes in its watches makes it a prominent name in the industry. The brand executes detail in the most prudent manner.

Chopard ladies’ watches and jewelry take on numerous inspirations. For instance, the Chopard Imperiale collection includes delicate details for modern-day achievers. It embraces the power of femininity without taking away the tenderness of it. The brand also moves with their Happy collections namely Chopard Happy Diamonds, Chopard Happy Hearts, and Chopard Happy Sport. Each Happy collection fuses modern tech with timeless charms.

7. Piaget

Piaget truly knows how to engage the female aesthetic with its wide selection of jewelry and watches. It’s not hard to see how Piaget remains an important name in the industry. It caters to a wide variety of clients with a heart for its products. It doesn’t shy away from colors or the grandness of jewelry, but it knows how to tone it down. Surely, whatever you prefer for a piece of jewelry or timepiece, Piaget has it for you.

Piaget has been, to this day, a well-known producer of iconic timepieces. The Piaget Altiplano watch remains the world’s thinnest watch after dethroning the Octo Finissimo. With a movement that only stands 2mm tall, it’s fascinating how the Altiplano keeps a steady, accurate beat. Every Piaget watch collection — be it a Piaget Polo S or the Altiplano — has an equivalent or perfect half from its jewelry collection. It’s truly a one-stop-shop for luxury.

8. Breguet

One of the oldest brands on our list, Breguet boasts a rich and unparalleled heritage. Its clientele includes names that we don’t only see on TV and movies but also in history books. Yes, Breguet is the ultimate watchmaker for Queen Victoria and even Napoleon Bonaparte. Given that, it’s not hard to figure out why the brand’s aesthetic lean more on the glimmering side of elegance.

Breguet’s collection of jewelry pieces puts the diamond on a pedestal. They even produce jewelry watches with collections like the Marie-Antoinette Dentelle and Le Petit Trianon. But they don’t shy away from playful designs like the L’orangerie collection. On the other hand, Breguet’s timepieces are also renowned by enthusiasts such as the Breguet Tradition and Breguet Classique.

9. Gucci

Gucci is a brand that’s hard to miss. It is, perhaps, the Rolex of luxury fashion. Its name is recognizable everywhere. Most people also refer to Gucci for the finest of bags and clothes. But unbeknown to many, Gucci also produces jewelry and watches. However, it’s a little hard to see that, especially with all the products in its big catalog. Gucci offers not only fine jewelry but also high jewelry. But the great thing about Gucci is that its catalog teems with varied styles.

The brand produces refined jewelry as well as fun accessories for quirky individuals. Its timepieces range from unique designs to quintessential elegance. This, you’ll find in their collections like the Gucci G-Timeless, Gucci Vintage Web, Gucci Horsebit, and Grip Watch. Its jewelry collection is crusted with precious stones and the brand’s iconic logo that no one can mistake for anything else.

10. Louis Vuitton

Perhaps on the same level as Gucci’s popularity, you’ll find Louis Vuitton or LV. This brand focuses more on the refined beauty of things. It’s not as flashy as Gucci with its eccentric designs, but it sure knows how to convey luxury in the finest manner. LV takes inspiration from just about anything — nature, geometry, or even itself. Given this, it’s hard to group its jewelry and watches with one description only. It also spans various categories for different needs.

You can go understated with the LV Volt collection or go for a more defined aesthetic with the Tambour. With all the products of LV, it’s easy to get lost. But you won’t mistake its products for anything else. There’s a unique sensibility in its designs that only the LV brand can carry.

How to Pair Your Watches with Jewelry

Pairing watches with jewelry brings good results. Not only does it elevate your overall look effortlessly, but it also keeps your image refined. No matter how small your jewelry is or how dainty your timepiece may be, the pairing provides a great effect on your whole ensemble. Here are some pairings that you might like in different styles — courtesy of our favorite watch and jewelry brands.

Minimalist & Utilitarian

Minimalist looks go a long way. It can be taken from the streets to the ballroom with its sensibility. It’s not flashy, but it gives you a refined edge that’s just right. Without the over-the-top details, one may still be able to enjoy the luxurious vibe that watches and jewelry gives off. If you’re looking to pull off this style, for every day look, it’s best to pair a simple band ring with a utilitarian timepiece like a Casio G-Shock GMW-B5000. But if you want to take this look to a formal event, ring sets with a watch with minimal dial details like a Rado Hyperchrome.

Bold & Sparkly

If you’re on the opposite side of the spectrum and love the fine details of bold jewelry, there’s a perfect pairing just for you. However, you wouldn’t want your accessories to fight for the spotlight. Make sure that despite their bold details, each has great points to offer. Pair a precious gem ring with a timepiece that doesn’t take away the grandeur of the ring and vice versa. For instance, a diamond ring works best with watches like a Rolex Lady Datejust. Likewise, if you’re wearing a flashy watch like a Bulgari Serpenti, pair it with a ring from the same collection or an equally coiled ring. This keeps the grand flair on your look without exaggerating.

Understated & Chic

However, if you’re into a dainty look, don’t be afraid to add a little sparkle here and there. It won’t take away from your look with the right jewelry or watch. The understated look, despite its nature, is pretty hard to pull off especially if you’re not equipped for it. But once you master how to do it without looking too minimalist, you’re all good. Keep the gem of your rings to a minimum if you want to pull this look off. A large gemstone isn’t exactly understated. Opt for small studs on your timepiece as with a diamond-studded Patek Philippe Calatrava or a Longines La Grande Classique. Just the right sparkle makes a huge difference!

Edgy & Trendy

Everybody loves an edgy look every now and then. Others, on the other hand, live for this style. Either way, to make your pairing edgy, the easiest way to go about this is to choose the right colors. Contrary to popular belief, black isn’t the only edgy color. Bold colors and grand designs can also be edgy. A Hamilton Ventura can be just as edgy as a TAG Heuer Link. It all rests on how you carry your jewelry and watch pairing. With that said, just because you’re going for an edgy look doesn’t mean you have to load your wrist with numerous bracelets. Wear a bracelet that would look like a portion of your timepiece. Say, if you’re wearing your Ventura, you can still wear a Versace Medusa Head bracelet to complement it.

Casual & Effortless

Keeping your look casual doesn’t take a genius to do. In fact, just about any watch can work any day as long as your environment calls for it. But if you’re looking for a bracelet and watch pairing that you can take from the streets on a night out, the key is to keep it simple. You would want to prioritize your comfort without sacrificing style. It also has to be versatile that even an outfit change won’t bother the set you already have on. The easiest way to go is to pick your everyday timepiece. It could range from an Omega Constellation to a Seiko Lukia. For your bracelet of choice, a simple band or a single coil bracelet will do the trick.

Contrasting or Complementing

Last but never least, the easiest way to pair your bracelet with your watch (or any jewelry for this matter), is by complementing or contrasting them. You can wear a Tudor 1926 with a silver bracelet or your Longines Symphonette with a gold band. On the other hand, the easiest way to complement it is to pair your watch with an onyx detail or a simple bracelet alongside a watch with a black dial. You can also easily do it by mixing metals. A gold watch with a silver bracelet or a gold set shouldn’t hurt. If you’d like, you can also pick a watch with contrasting details like the Gucci Diamantissima with a gold case and black dial.

Dos and Don’ts of Watch and Jewelry Pairing

Do consider your whole ensemble.

When you’re dressing up, taking your whole outfit into consideration is the best way to go. What color of top are you wearing? Are you keeping it casual or bold? Accessories are integral parts of an overall look. Complementing your jewelry and watch with your whole outfit will definitely help in the overall outcome of your looks.

Do respect the event theme.

Every event has a theme. Even the streets have a theme! Wherever you’re going or whatever function you’re attending, understanding the theme of the occasion helps in picking out the right accessory. It could tell you whether or not you should keep it minimal or extravagant. Either way, respecting the event should only work for your benefit.

Don’t overlayer.

The biggest mistake people make when wearing watches is overdoing it with bracelets and rings. Not only does it take away the focus from your watch, but it also makes your arm feel heavy. You would want to look effortlessly fashionable every time. And the only way to do it is to pick three bracelets at the most to go with your watch. More than that, you’re probably overdoing it. However, if you’re going for heavily studded bracelets or watches, a simple bracelet will do. The same thing goes with rings. While there are ring sets that require at least five pieces to be worn (they’re usually minimal in design), don’t go for heavy studs if your watch already has diamond crusts.

Don’t let your jewelry and watch overpower each other.

Your accessories must always work with each other and not against each other. Decide on the focal point of your whole outfit before picking the accessories that go with it. Build around it and not against it. If you decide to highlight your watch, wear a bracelet and ring that will enhance its beauty rather than fight it. This way, your look will stay coordinated.

Do follow your style intuition.

When all fails, a woman’s intuition will always be the best one to consult. Women are innately stylish, and pairing watches with jewelry is just one of the little things they can do. At the end of the day, it’s your own style that you should follow. No matter what style you’re pulling off — casual or glamorous — don’t hesitate to do it. Accessories are mere ways to express yourself and not the other way around.

A Woman’s Best Accessory

Fashion can be tricky in itself. Mixing and matching do take a while especially if you’re new at it. It’s easy to just pick items up and put them together. But it’s hard to pull it off. At the end of the day, the greatest fashion accessory a woman can have is her confidence. Whatever it is you’re wearing on whichever occasion, as long as you have the confidence to pull it off, you’ll be on the right track. Don’t hesitate to consider your own style as it is the foundation of your whole ensemble. Treat watches and jewelry as a means of expressing yourself. They’re not only there to make you look fabulous but also to make you feel like you’re in control. With all the glitz and glamour luxury fashion has to offer, being yourself will always be the brightest decoration.